HSE warns the textile industry to be aware of fire and explosion risks

Following the recent prosecution of Clarkson Textiles Ltd, of Nelson, Lancashire, the Health and Safety Executive issues a reminder to the textile industry, particularly companies working with flock or other dusty materials, to be aware of the risk of fire or explosion.

Following the recent prosecution of Clarkson Textiles Ltd, of Nelson, Lancashire, the Health and Safety Executive issues a reminder to the textile industry, particularly companies working with flock or other dusty materials, to be aware of the risk of fire or explosion.

The prosecution followed an investigation by HSE into the serious injuries suffered by Pablo Magee, a stenter oven operative, during an explosion at the company's Lindred Road, Nelson, site on 21 January 2002.

The incident occurred immediately after a partial clean of a stenter oven had been completed. The excess flock dust remaining in the oven was drawn into the air when the oven's extractor fan was switched on and subsequently ignited on the oven's pilot light causing a fireball and explosion.

Following the prosecution HSE inspector Liz Evans said:
'Pablo Magee received serious burns to his arms and neck and has been unable to return to work. Despite being served an improvement notice in 1999 for housekeeping issues the company's cleaning regime had become erratic. They failed to keep work surfaces, including ovens, and walls sufficiently clean of viscose and flock dust. As a result of poor housekeeping an avoidable incident has occurred. There are lessons to be learnt here by all those who work with dusty materials.'

Clarkson Textiles Ltd pleaded guilty to a charge under Section 2(1) of the Health and Safety At Work Act 1974 in that they failed to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare at work of all employees, including Pablo Magee. Clarkson Textiles was fined £9,000 and ordered to pay £11,110 costs, at Burnley, Pendle & Rossendale Magistrates Court, on Thursday 22 July 2004.